Introducing trocar with cryo-fixation of access cannula

Abstract

A trocar assembly including an obturator, an access cannula, and a reservoir is provided. The access cannula defines a lumen therethrough configured to selectively receive the obturator. The reservoir is configured to be selectively coupled to the obturator such that the reservoir is in fluid communication with a hollow interior portion of the obturator. An obturator is also provided including an elongate body and a connection point. The elongate body extends between proximal and distal portions and is configured to be received within an access cannula. The elongate body defines a hollow interior portion therein. The connection point is disposed on an exterior portion of the elongate body and is configured to be selectively coupled to a fluid reservoir. Rapid expansion of fluid within the hollow interior portion causes tissue in contact with the access cannula to freeze thereto. A method of performing surgery is also provided.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62 / 378,752, filed on Aug. 24, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUNDTechnical Field[0002]The present disclosure relates to surgical apparatus, and more particularly, to trocar assemblies and methods for temporarily fixing the location of an access cannula with respect to target tissue.Description of Related Art[0003]As technology has advanced, surgeons have begun to replace classical open surgical techniques with minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic or thoracoscopic surgery in an effort to minimize trauma to surrounding tissue, reduce pain, reduce scarring, and reduce the length of time the patient is required to stay in the hospital. Minimally invasive surgery, such as the laparoscopic approach pioneered in the early 20th century, involves the use of small incisions (from one to seve...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present disclosure describes a trocar assembly that includes an access cannula, an obturator, and a reservoir. The obturator is a hollow device that can be inserted into the access cannula and used to create small incisions in tissue. The reservoir is connected to the obturator and can release fluid to quickly cool the surface of the obturator. This reduces the risk of damage to the surrounding tissue during surgery. The method involves inserting the obturator into the target tissue, transferring fluid to the hollow interior of the obturator, and then removing the obturator to allow a tool to be inserted through the access cannula to treat the tissue. The technical effects of this invention are improved precision and control during surgery, as well as reduced risk of complications.

Problems solved by technology

Any shift in the location of the cannula assembly makes it more difficult for a surgeon to accurately perform the procedure on the target tissue.

However, these adhesive needles guides fail to solve the problem of a migrating cannula assembly or even exacerbate the problem due to being adhered to the patient's skin rather than the target tissue.

However, the barbs or tines create a risk that surrounding tissue, blood vessels, bile ducts, or nerves may be damaged or that fistulas may be created between neighboring tissue structures.

Further, when encountering denser tissues, the barbs or tines may not travel the intended path; rather, the barbs or tines may deflect and embed in unintended tissues.

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